Renew in person at the RMV or by mail, depending on your situation
You can renew your Massachusetts driver's license either in person at a Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) office or by mail, but not all licenses are may be able to access for mail renewal. If your license is not expiring within the next 30 days and you have not had any violations or suspensions in the past five years, you can renew by mail. Otherwise, you must go to an RMV office in person.
The in-person process takes about 30 to 45 minutes at most RMV locations, though wait times vary by office and time of day. Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the RMV receives your process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires, so you do not have to wait until the last moment.
Key Takeaways
- Mail renewal is available only if your license is not expiring within 30 days and you have no violations or suspensions on your record in the past five years.
- In-person renewal at an RMV office requires a valid ID, proof of residency, and your current license or a copy of it.
- You can renew up to one year before your license expires, so you have flexibility in timing.
- The RMV charges a renewal fee that varies based on how many years you are renewing for (typically $50 for five years or $100 for ten years).
Gather your documents before you go or mail them
Whether you renew in person or by mail, you will need the same documents. Start by collecting your current Massachusetts driver's license or a copy of it. You also need one form of valid ID — a passport, passport card, military ID, or state ID card all work. If you do not have your current license, bring two forms of ID instead.
Next, bring proof of your current Massachusetts address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the past 60 days will work. If you have moved recently and your ID does not show your new address, bring both the old document and the new proof of address. The RMV will not accept a PO box as proof of residency.
If you are renewing by mail, place all documents in an envelope with the renewal form (available on the RMV website or by calling 857-368-8000) and mail it to the address listed on the form. Keep a copy of everything you send for your records.
Complete the renewal form and pay the fee
The renewal form is Form DL 34, available on mass.gov/rmv or at any RMV office. You can fill it out at home before you go, or fill it out at the office. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and whether any of your information has changed since your last renewal. It also asks about your vision and whether you have any medical conditions that affect your driving.
The renewal fee depends on how long you want your license to be valid. A five-year renewal costs $50, and a ten-year renewal costs $100. You can pay by cash, check, or card at an RMV office. If you are renewing by mail, include a check or money order made out to "Registrar of Motor Vehicles." Do not send cash by mail.
Schedule an appointment or walk in to an RMV office
Most RMV offices now require appointments, though some locations accept walk-ins during specific hours. You can schedule an appointment on mass.gov/rmv by selecting your preferred office and time slot. Appointments are typically available within one to two weeks, though this varies by location and season.
If you prefer to walk in, check the RMV website for your local office's walk-in hours. Walk-in service is usually available early in the morning or during off-peak hours. Bring all your documents and your completed renewal form (or fill it out there). Bring your current license as well, since the RMV will collect it when you renew.
What happens at the RMV office
When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give them your renewal form and documents. A staff member will review your paperwork to make sure everything is complete. If you are renewing your license, you will not need to take a new photo unless your current photo is more than ten years old or you request a new one. You will not need to take a written or road test for a standard renewal.
After your paperwork is approved, you will pay the renewal fee and receive a receipt. Your new license will be mailed to you within two to three weeks. The RMV will give you a temporary paper license that is valid until your new one arrives. Keep this temporary license with you while you drive.
Track your new license and what to do if it does not arrive
You can check the status of your renewed license on mass.gov/rmv by entering your driver's license number and date of birth. The status page will tell you whether your license has been mailed and when you can expect to receive it. Most licenses arrive within the timeframe the RMV provides, but mail delays can happen.
If your new license does not arrive within four weeks of your renewal appointment, contact the RMV at 857-368-8000. Have your temporary license and receipt ready when you call. The RMV can reissue your license or investigate whether it was lost in the mail. If your license arrives damaged, you can exchange it at any RMV office for free.
Renewing online is not available in Massachusetts
Massachusetts does not currently offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You must renew either by mail or in person at an RMV office. Some states allow online renewal, but Massachusetts requires either a mailed process or an in-person visit to verify your identity and take a new photo if needed.
If you are out of state and your license is expiring, you can still renew by mail using the process described above. Mail your completed form and documents to the RMV address on the form, and your new license will be sent to your mailing address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it has already expired?
Yes, but you will need to renew in person at an RMV office rather than by mail. Bring all the same documents plus your expired license. You may also need to pass a vision test. There is no penalty for renewing after expiration, but you cannot legally drive on an expired license.
Do I need a new photo for my renewal?
Only if your current photo is more than ten years old or if you request a new one. If you do need a new photo, it will be taken at the RMV office during your in-person renewal. You cannot submit a photo by mail.
What if my address has changed since my last renewal?
Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days) along with your other documents. The RMV will update your address during the renewal process. You do not need to change your address separately.
How long is my temporary license valid?
Your temporary paper license is valid until your new plastic license arrives in the mail, typically two to three weeks. You must carry it with you while driving. Once your new license arrives, the temporary license is no longer valid.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No, you must renew in person or by mail yourself. If you are renewing by mail, you sign the form and mail it. If you are renewing in person, you must be present at the RMV office. The RMV will not accept a renewal from a family member or representative.